BANGLADESH TOP COURT SCRAPS MOST JOB QUOTAS; STUDENTS VOW TO PROTEST UNTIL DEMANDS MET

Sun 21 July 2024:

Bangladesh’s Supreme Court has reduced the controversial government job quota system that led to deadly nationwide protests. Although the streets have calmed following the ruling, student leaders vow to continue demonstrations until their demands, including the release of those jailed and the resignation of officials responsible for the violence, are met.

Quotas Reduced, Merit Emphasized

The court ruled that 93% of government jobs should be based on merit, allowing only 5% for relatives of freedom fighters and 2% for ethnic minorities, transgender, and disabled individuals. This decision came after the High Court reinstated the contentious quota system, sparking protests that turned violent when governing party workers attacked students.

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Protesters’ Demands and Army Deployment

Protesters have demanded the abolition of the 30% quota for 1971 liberation war veterans. The Students Against Discrimination group welcomed the court’s decision but insisted protests will continue until the government reflects their demands in an order. The army was deployed throughout Dhaka, with military presence seen near the Supreme Court.

Internet Blackout and Continued Protests

Bangladesh has experienced an internet and text message blackout since Thursday as police cracked down on protesters defying a ban on public gatherings. Student leaders demand the release of arrested protesters and the resignation of Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan and Awami League secretary-general Obaidul Quader, whom they hold responsible for the crackdown.

Casualties and Government Response

Local reports indicate over 100 deaths, though official numbers haven’t been released. Anti-Discrimination Student Movement leader Hasnat Abdullah said the state should take responsibility for the killings. Attorney General AM Amin Uddin expressed hope for normalcy and called for strict action against those behind the violence.

Blame on Political Rivals

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan blamed opposition parties for the violence, stating that the curfew would continue until the situation improves. He accused the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami of instigating destructive activities targeting the government.

Background on Quota System

The quota system, introduced in 1972 by Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, reserved a significant portion of government jobs for children and grandchildren of independence war veterans and other groups, with 56% of jobs reserved and 44% based on merit. This system has now been significantly scaled back by the Supreme Court.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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